Brevard to consider later school-year start date

Officials consider acting now to avoid a last-minute change

7:24 AM,
Mar. 5, 2012

Buses arrive early at Manatee Elementary School.

Written by

Mackenzie Ryan
| FLORIDA TODAY

For years, Brevard Public Schools has started the school year almost two weeks earlier than other districts.

But school board members are considering pushing the start date back next school year, from Aug. 8 to Aug. 20.

More stringent FCAT pass rates and a revamped school grading system have led to concerns that Brevard could fail to meet the state's standards for a "high performing" district. The prestigious designation grants certain benefits, including allowing schools to start earlier. ...